Meth, heroin seized in Fortuna; 2 arrests

Humboldt County Drug Task Force agents seized more than 1 pound, 2 ounces of crystal methamphetamine and over a half- pound of heroin Thursday in Fortuna, according to authorities.

During a search at the apartment on Lawndale Court in Fortuna around 12 p.m., agents found large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin packaged for sales along with scales, packaging material, 2 pounds of marijuana bud and $18,200, according to the release. The estimated value of the methamphetamine is $21,400, and the estimated wholesale value of the heroin is about $10,000.

Before the warrant, agents arrested 24-year-old Laurenco Carbajal Licano from Hidalgo, Mexico -- one of the men listed on the warrant -- after finding several ounces of methamphetamine and heroin packaged for sale in hidden compartments in his car during a traffic stop. Fortuna resident James Edward Stark, 56, was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance after they observed him meeting with Licano. According to the release, Stark had a quarter gram of heroin in his pocket and had swallowed six grams of heroin before being approached by agents.

Licano was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, possession for sale of a controlled substance, transportation of a controlled substance, possession of illicit drugs, possession for sale of illicit drugs, transportation of illicit drugs, driving unlicensed and having a false compartment to transport drugs. Both men were taken to the Humboldt County jail, and bail was set at $50,000 for Licano and $25,000 for Stark, who is being observed by medical personnel.

The second man listed on the warrant has not been found, and investigation is ongoing. Agents also seized a 2010 Chevrolet Camaro that Licano was driving as part of asset forfeiture proceedings, according to the release.

The Task Force has asked anyone with information to contact the office at 444-8095 or the Eureka Police Department's Problem Oriented Policing Unit at 441-4373.